Roberto Carlos has shared the dressing room with some of the greatest players in the history of football at Real Madrid for more than a decade, but when asked which of his former team-mates surprised him the most, the legendary left-back didn’t hesitate.
The former Real Madrid player who surprised Roberto Carlos the most
As a Brazilian icon, the credit goes to Portuguese midfielder Luis Figo. “In my opinion he was a great player and I was really surprised,” Roberto Carlos said of his time with Los Blancos. The praise from a defender who has played alongside players such as Lal, Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo Nazrio and Fernando Hierro carries a lot of weight.
Figo shocked the Spanish football world when he joined Real Madrid from FC Barcelona in the summer of 2000. At the time, he became the most expensive signing in the game and quickly justified his status with consistent, high-level performances.
An important part of Los Galticos
Known for his dribbling ability, vision and accurate passing, Figo played a key role in Madrid’s attacking play, providing assists that benefited all the forwards in line. Beyond his technical qualities, Roberto Carlos highlighted Figo’s leadership, noting his role as captain and influential presence on the pitch.
Before moving to Madrid, Figo had already shown his potential at Sporting de Portugal, where he emerged as one of Europe’s most promising talents at an early age. His success continued at every club he represented, and at Santiago Bernabbe he became a central figure in the most star-studded team in the history of the sport.
Real Madrid’s team enjoyed continued success, winning seven major titles during Figo’s time at the club, including the club’s ninth European Cup, won with Glasgow. Individually, Figo reached the pinnacle of the sport by winning the Ballon d’Or in 2000, cementing his place among the world’s elite athletes.
Roberto Carlos had a legendary career with Real Madrid
Roberto Carlos remains one of the club’s most iconic figures, with achievements including over a dozen trophies and three Champions League wins over 11 seasons at Real Madrid. Known for his speed, stability and powerful left foot, he played a key role in Madrid’s success before leaving in 2007 after winning the league.
Of the many stars he shared the field with, it was Figo who left the most lasting impression, a testament to the Portuguese midfielder’s influence during one of the most famous eras in Real Madrid’s history.
